Building Strong Brigades

Is a two-day programme run on the same day each week over two consecutive weeks. It’s for chefs taking charge of the brigade for the first time. Because managing people isn’t like following the spec sheet.

It is designed for Head Chefs running a brigade of 6 or more.

It has been attended by head chefs, senior sous, chefs de cuisine, any kitchen manager responsible for team performance. Any chef who prefers to work in a group with chefs only.

What is it?

The chef’s job is ‘physical’, ‘adrenaline-driven’, ‘inspiring’, ‘rewarding’, ‘high pressure’ and for some ‘the hardest thing you’ve done in your life’ It takes a disciplined and committed leader to build a strong brigade.

A strong brigade is cohesive, flexible and able to deal with pressure. These are strengths founded on mutual trust, decentralised leadership, quality of relationships, clarity and flexibility.

As an audience, chefs are disciplined, confident and knowledgeable. From a management programme they want pace, workable ideas and involvement: A fast-moving, applicable, adult to adult process. One which is problem-solving in nature, challenging and includes a minimum of trainer-speak.

How it works

The programme is designed for pragmatists – there is very little theory, lots of activity and tools to put to immediate use.

Learning outcomes

On completion of the programme you will have a clear idea of exactly where each member of your brigade fits on a map of 6 levels of performance and be skilled in the 6 responses which apply to each.

Managing problem performers – some questions to ask yourself
Managing doubters – helping them connect to the team’s purpose
Rookies – giving feedback which will lift their performance
High performers – taking a coaching approach
Losing energy / mojo – finding their route to reengagement
Relics – coaching to success in your brigade or elsewhere

About Watershed

We run management development programmes and special events for bar and restaurant companies. Together we develop their people to achieve exceptional rates of promotion from within. From our central London location, we run programmes of development for supervisors, general managers multisite.

Our style is not just an expert opinion delivered by a trainer but a truly collaborative approach to the day that encourages sharing of best practice, buy- in and practical application. For experienced managers we add structure and meaning to what is already an intuitive understanding. Our approach is proven to have a lasting impact on participants, their teams and their organisations.